In Quest of the Universe, Seventh Edition

Designed for the nonscience major, In Quest of the Universe, Seventh Edition provides a comprehensive, accessible introduction to astronomy, while taking students on an exciting trek through our solar system and beyond.

Updated throughout with the latest findings in this fast-paced field, the author unfolds historical and contemporary theories in astronomy to provide a clear account of how the science works. His student-friendly writing style and clear explanations acquaint students with our own solar system before moving on to the stars and distant galaxies.

New Comparative Planetology boxes and data table throughout the text examine the similarities and differences in the geology, evolution, and atmospheres of all the planets in our solar system. This rich pedagogy further engages students and motivates them to think critically and develop basic reasoning skills in their studies.

New and Key Features of the Seventh Edition:

- Update throughout with the latest discoveries in the field, with new and expanded content found in each chapter.

- Added critical thinking and problem solving exercises are included at the end of each chapter.

- New boxes and data tables throughout examine the similarities and differences in the geology, evolution, and atmospheres of all planets in our solar system.

- To increase understanding and clarity, sample calculations have been added to mathematical sections

- The companion Web site, Starlinks, is included with every new copy of the text and includes study quizzes, Exploration Web links, animated flashcards, an online glossary, chapter outlines, a calendar of upcoming astronomical events, a guide to the constellations, and a new math review/tutor. Starry Night College Edition is also included on the companion site and includes a wealth of engaging exercises and simulations.

Table of Contents:

Chapter 1 The Quest AheadChapter 2 From an Earth-Centered to a Sun-Centered SystemChapter 3 Gravity and the Rise of Modern AstronomyChapter 4 Light and the Electromagnetic SpectrumChapter 5 Telescopes: Windows to the UniverseChapter 6 The Earth-Moon SystemChapter 7 A Planetary OverviewChapter 8 Terrestrial PlanetsChapter 9 The Jovian PlanetsChapter 10 Dwarf Planets and Solar System DebrisChapter 11 The SunChapter 12 Measuring the Properties of StarsChapter 13 Interstellar Matter and Star FormationChapter 14 The Lives and Deaths of Low-Mass StarsChapter 15 The Deaths of Massive StarsChapter 16 The Milky Way GalaxyChapter 17 A Diversity of GalaxiesChapter 18 Cosmology: The Nature of the UniverseChapter 19 The Quest for Extraterrestrial Intelligence